Lupus is a disease that occurs when your body's immune system attacks your own tissues and organs like how it's supposed to attack foreign invaders like viruses or bacteria. Inflammation caused by lupus can affect many different body systems — including your joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart and lungs.

Lupus can be difficult to diagnose because its signs and symptoms often mimic those of other ailments. The most distinctive sign of lupus — a facial rash that resembles the wings of a butterfly unfolding across both cheeks — occurs in many but not all cases of lupus.

Some people are born with a tendency toward developing lupus, which may be triggered by infections, certain drugs or even sunlight. While most believe there's no cure for lupus, we are aware of many treatments (natural and chemical) that can help control symptoms.